Statement by H.E. Sanita Pavļuta-Deslandes, PR of Latvia to the United Nations at UN Security Council meeting (Adoption) on resolution submitted by the Russian Federation
New York, 11 March 2026
Thank you, President.
Latvia voted against the resolution submitted by the Russian Federation for the following reasons: Latvia unequivocally supports the fundamental principles of the Charter of the United Nations recalled in this text, including the prohibition of the use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state, as well as international law, including international humanitarian law, protecting civilians and civilian infrastructure and we share the deep concern regarding the current escalation of hostilities in the Middle East and beyond.
However, we could not support the presented draft as it was tabled by a permanent member of this Council, which itself is violating daily, for years, the very principles it now calls upon others to respect. The aggression, use of force against territorial integrity and political independence, continued attacks against civilian infrastructure and civilians carried out by Russia in Ukraine stand in total contradiction to the commitments invoked in this draft. It is cynical and represents hypocrisy of the highest order.
Iran is now attacking civilians and civilian infrastructure in the region and beyond with the same weapons it is supplying to Russia to attack civilians in Ukraine.
We agree, this is not a resolution submitted in good faith and, despite our agreement with the values and objectives outlined in the text, Latvia was compelled to vote against.
I thank you!